If you've ever taken a road trip with your family through Pennsylvania, you might have seen those tall blue and gold signs along the highway or outside old buildings. Maybe you’ve even wondered what they’re all about. These are Pennsylvania’s historical markers, and they’re like storybooks made of metal, sharing important moments from our state’s past.
Whether you're in the heart of Harrisburg or the quiet hills of rural counties, these markers help us remember the people, places, and events that have shaped Pennsylvania and America.
These blue and gold markers aren’t just roadside signs.
For cyber students, they serve as bridges that provide opportunities to see their own place in history, engage with peers in meaningful ways, and build pride in Pennsylvania’s past and future.
Where Did These Markers Come From?
The Pennsylvania Historical Marker Program started more than 100 years ago, back in 1914. It was created to celebrate and preserve the stories that make Pennsylvania special. In 1946, the signs received their now-famous look: blue backgrounds with shiny gold lettering. These colors help the markers stand out so everyone can see and read them.
One of the most interesting things about these markers is how many different topics they cover. You can find stories about Revolutionary War battles like the Paoli Massacre and Valley Forge, inventions and industries such as oil drilling in Titusville or steel production in Pittsburgh, and civil rights heroes like Octavius V. Catto, who fought to desegregate public transportation in Philadelphia. He is honored with a plaque, pictured below, at his former residence.
(Octavius V. Catto marker, dedicated in 1992, located at 812 South St., Philadelphia, PA)
But did you know anyone can nominate a historical marker? That’s right! Students, teachers, and community members can help recognize an important place or person by submitting an application to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC).
However, there is a catch. You need evidence to show why the site is important to history. That means doing research, reading books, finding newspaper articles, and maybe even interviewing experts.
Pennsylvania’s historical markers are not just old signs. They are an invitation to learn, explore, and take pride in where you live. There are more than 2,500 markers across Pennsylvania, each one telling a different piece of our shared history. It’s like a giant outdoor museum, free for everyone.
Historical markers give students the chance to explore local history from wherever they live in Pennsylvania. Even though cyber students may not be in the same classroom, they can each investigate a marker near their home and then share what they learn in an online discussion, slideshow, or virtual gallery walk.
Citations
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. (2023). PHMC historical markers. https://www.phmc.pa.gov
Explore PA History. (2022). Marker program and historical sites. https://www.explorepahistory.com
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